This volume, part of the collected works of Honoré de Balzac, delves into the intricate tapestry of 19th-century French society through a series of interconnected novellas and short stories. Balzac, a towering figure in French literature and a master of realism, is renowned for his ambitious 'La Comédie humaine' (The Human Comedy), a vast collection designed to depict every aspect of French life during his time. His works are characterized by their psychological depth, detailed social observation, and often satirical portrayal of human foibles and societal structures.
Within this particular volume, readers encounter a diverse array of narratives, including 'The Member for Arcis,' which explores political maneuvering and provincial life, and 'Sarrasine,' a poignant tale of art, identity, and unrequited love. Balzac's keen insight into the human condition, his ability to create memorable characters, and his meticulous reconstruction of the social landscape make his writings enduringly relevant. His influence on subsequent generations of writers, both in France and internationally, is profound, solidifying his status as one of the most significant novelists in literary history.
Collectors are drawn to Balzac's collected works not only for their literary merit but also for the comprehensive window they offer into a pivotal era. This volume, featuring a selection of his diverse short fiction, provides an excellent cross-section of his thematic concerns and stylistic brilliance, making it a valuable addition to any collection focusing on classical French literature or the development of the novel.
VOLUME 17 ONLY (of an 18-volume set). The book is in poor condition. Boards are worn with bumped corners, moderate edgewear, frayed cloth, and moderate rubbing. The spine is partially missing. What remains is chipped and rubbed. Hinges tight. Binding square. The text block and pages are crisp and clean, and many edges are still uncut. Some damage was done to some initial pages when they were separated.
Illustrated edition. Hardcover. No dust jacket. Bound in half leather. Top edge gilt. Hand marbled endpapers. This is an antiquarian book that has had a long and illustrious journey through time. Please take a look at the pictures to ascertain the condition of this item.
Location: ABS-1-2-022